17246, Pleasant Hall, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 17246, Pleasant Hall, Pennsylvania is 56 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 68.38 percent of the residents in 17246 has some form of health insurance. 43.81 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 39.86 percent of the residents have private health insurance, either through their employer or direct purchase. Military veterans should know that percent of the residents in the ZIP Code of 17246 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 148 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 10 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17246. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 57 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 9,974 health care providers accessible to residents in 17246, Pleasant Hall, Pennsylvania.

## Breast Cancer Score Analysis: Pleasant Hall, PA (ZIP Code 17246)

This analysis aims to provide a comprehensive "Breast Cancer Score" assessment for physicians practicing within ZIP code 17246, Pleasant Hall, Pennsylvania, and to evaluate the availability of primary care services within the same geographical area. The score will consider factors critical to breast cancer detection, treatment, and patient support, including physician-to-patient ratios, standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health resources.

Pleasant Hall, a small community in south-central Pennsylvania, presents a unique challenge for healthcare access. The rural nature of the area often translates to a reduced availability of specialized medical services, making primary care and efficient referral pathways crucial. The "Breast Cancer Score" will reflect the ability of the local healthcare ecosystem to address these challenges effectively.

**Physician-to-Patient Ratios and Primary Care Availability:**

The cornerstone of effective breast cancer care lies in accessible primary care. Regular screenings, early detection, and prompt referrals are all heavily reliant on the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs). Assessing the physician-to-patient ratio within 17246 is, therefore, paramount. Data from the Pennsylvania Department of Health and other sources will be used to determine the approximate number of PCPs serving the area and estimate the patient population. A lower ratio, indicating more physicians per capita, generally translates to better access.

Beyond raw numbers, the distribution of PCPs matters. Are the practices geographically dispersed, making them accessible to all residents, or are they concentrated in specific areas? The availability of evening and weekend appointments, crucial for working individuals, will also be evaluated. The presence of nurse practitioners and physician assistants, who can often provide a significant portion of primary care services, will be considered. The score will reflect the overall ease with which residents can secure timely appointments with qualified primary care providers.

**Standout Practices and Specialized Care:**

Identifying standout practices involves assessing the quality of care provided by local physicians. This will involve evaluating their adherence to national guidelines for breast cancer screening and diagnosis. Factors such as the use of digital mammography, the availability of breast ultrasound and MRI, and the speed with which patients are referred to specialists (e.g., radiologists, oncologists, surgeons) will be crucial.

Practices with a strong emphasis on patient education and support will receive higher scores. This includes providing information about breast cancer risk factors, screening recommendations, and available treatment options. Practices that actively participate in community outreach programs, promoting breast cancer awareness and early detection, will also be recognized. The score will reflect the practices’ commitment to delivering comprehensive, patient-centered care.

**Telemedicine Adoption and its Impact:**

Telemedicine offers a powerful tool to overcome geographical barriers and improve access to healthcare, particularly in rural areas like Pleasant Hall. The adoption of telemedicine by local practices will be a significant factor in the "Breast Cancer Score." Practices that offer virtual consultations for follow-up appointments, medication management, and even initial consultations will be viewed favorably.

The availability of remote monitoring technologies, allowing physicians to track patient health data remotely, will also be considered. Telemedicine can facilitate access to specialists, such as oncologists and radiologists, who may not be readily available locally. The score will reflect the extent to which local practices have embraced telemedicine to enhance patient care and improve access to specialized services.

**Mental Health Resources and Patient Support:**

Breast cancer diagnosis and treatment can be emotionally challenging. Access to mental health resources is, therefore, a critical component of comprehensive care. The "Breast Cancer Score" will assess the availability of mental health services within the 17246 ZIP code. This includes the presence of psychiatrists, psychologists, therapists, and counselors who specialize in supporting patients with cancer.

The score will consider the ease with which patients can access these services, including insurance coverage and wait times. Practices that offer on-site counseling or have established referral pathways to mental health professionals will be given higher ratings. Support groups, both in-person and virtual, provide invaluable peer support. Their availability and accessibility will also be factored into the score. The overall assessment will reflect the community's ability to provide holistic care, addressing the physical and emotional needs of breast cancer patients.

**Specific Considerations for Pleasant Hall:**

Given the rural nature of Pleasant Hall, the analysis will specifically consider the following:

* **Transportation:** The availability of reliable transportation options, particularly for patients who may not be able to drive, will be assessed. This includes public transportation options and community-based transportation services.
* **Community Partnerships:** The presence of partnerships between local healthcare providers and community organizations, such as the American Cancer Society or local support groups, will be evaluated. These partnerships can help to improve access to resources and provide patients with a strong support network.
* **Insurance Coverage:** The analysis will consider the availability of health insurance options and the acceptance of various insurance plans by local providers. This will help to ensure that patients have access to affordable care.

**Conclusion:**

The "Breast Cancer Score" for physicians and primary care availability in Pleasant Hall (ZIP Code 17246) will be a dynamic assessment reflecting the evolving healthcare landscape. It will highlight areas of strength and identify opportunities for improvement. By considering physician-to-patient ratios, standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources, this analysis aims to provide a valuable resource for residents seeking quality breast cancer care.

To visualize the distribution of healthcare resources, including physician locations, practice specialties, and the availability of support services, consider using CartoChrome maps. These interactive maps can provide a clear and concise overview of the healthcare landscape in Pleasant Hall and the surrounding areas, empowering you to make informed decisions about your health.